Nasri outlines how ‘defensive beast’ Rice can improve for West Ham

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West Ham United star Samir Nasri has spoken about his rapidly developing teammate Declan Rice.

The Frenchman was discussing his own chances of remaining with the Hammmers beyond the current season, after he signed a short-term deal with the club in January.

Nasri was picked up for free by his former manager Manuel Pellegrini, after serving his 18-month ban for breaching WADA rules.

So far, the playmaker has made six appearances for the club having suffered recently from a calf problem.

He was named amongst the substitutes against Huddersfield Town last weekend, but came on in the second half to inspire the team to a 4-3 comeback win.

Rice’s ‘biggest weakness’

After admitting he is playing for his future, Nasri then discussed Rice, who has had a fine season at the London Stadium.

Of the holding midfielder, Nasri said (quoted by Goal): “When you are young, your game is not perfect and he is going to improve

“For me his biggest weakness, if we are going to find a weakness, is that he needs to go forward more when he gets the ball.

“Defensively he is a beast though and tackling he is a beast also. I am really impressed with him.”

Rice has been a revelation for the Irons this term, making the holding midfield position his own.

The 20-year-old has been a mainstay in the side alongside Mark Noble, and plays with admirable maturity and poise.

Perhaps he is under strict instruction from Pellegrini not to venture forward. It’s certainly not something that will come naturally given he was a central defender not so long ago.